Apparatus and method for determining an individuals pillow type

ABSTRACT

The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide the proper pillow for a person based on the person&#39;s sleeping position and the characteristics of the person. The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a custom designed pillow based on preferred sleeping position, such as back, side or stomach, and certain characteristics, such as height and weight. These characteristics influence the appropriate pillow for a person. The sleeping position of the person determines the proper pillow structure for that person. The characteristics of the person determine the proper fill weight of the pillow. Determining a proper pillow based on these characteristics will allow the person to get pleasant, restful, and undisturbed sleep.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/594,363 filed on Mar. 31, 2005, entitled,“Apparatus and Method for Determining an Individual's Pillow Type,”which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed towards a pillow, and in particular to acustom designed pillow based on the characteristics of the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People customarily rest their heads on a pillow when they sleep. Mostpersons desire relaxing, enjoyable, refreshing, and undisturbed sleep.Pillows help accomplish this by providing proper support to people'snecks and heads while they sleep. Pillows can also provide a pleasantsoft and cool sensation on the skin of people's necks and face.

An average person spends over 2,500 hours a year with his or her head ona pillow. The quality of a person's sleep is a very important factor inthe person's health, appearance, and happiness. The pillow used by theperson plays a significant role in determining how well the personsleeps. Pillows can be too firm or not firm enough. If a pillow has thewrong fill weight and/or fill material it will cause the head of theperson to be positioned uncomfortably and unnaturally. This leads to asore neck, a loss of sleep, and an unpleasant sleeping experience thatcan include pain and stiffness. A person who does not get enough restfulsleep will be unable to fully enjoy life and function optimally

People have very different body types and sleeping habits. There aresignificant differences in height, weight, body type, age and otherphysical characteristics among different people. People also havedifferent preferred sleeping positions. Some people prefer to sleep ontheir backs, while others prefers sleeping on their stomachs or sides.Pillows also vary greatly. Pillows have different sizes, shapes,firmnesses, constructions, and materials. Different pillows best suitthe sleeping needs of different people.

Significant problems arise when people do not use an appropriate pillow.Unfortunately most persons cannot determine what pillow is appropriatefor them. People are not generally aware of the different types ofpillows or of how certain factors should influence their choice. Despitehaving a similar appearance one pillow may differ significantly fromanother. A person using the wrong pillow will have an unpleasantsleeping experience and may be harmed from lack of sleep and theunnatural or unhealthy positioning of the head and neck relative to thebody for extended periods of time. Therefore, there is a need to supplypeople with the proper pillow to aid in their sleeping experience.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide the properpillow for a person based on the person's sleeping position, mattressfirmness and the characteristics of the person. The preferredembodiments of the present invention provide a custom designed pillowbased on preferred sleeping position, such as back, side or stomach, andcertain characteristics, such as height and weight. Thesecharacteristics influence the appropriate pillow for a person. Thesleeping position of the person determines the proper pillow structurefor that person. The characteristics of the person determine the properfill weight of the pillow. Determining a proper pillow based on thesecharacteristics will allow the person to get pleasant, restful, andundisturbed sleep.

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a custom designedpillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height,weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size,and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, thepillow comprising:

-   -   one or more chambers;    -   filler material deposited in each of the one or more chambers;    -   wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or        more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a customdesigned pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of aheight, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size,head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bedfirmness, the pillow comprising:

-   -   two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom        edges;    -   a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top        and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the        two short sides at the first edges and the second long side        attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;    -   a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at        the top edges;    -   a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at        the bottom edges;    -   a first chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two        short sides, the first long side, and a first interior wall;    -   a second chamber bounded by the topside, bottom side, the two        short sides, the first interior wall, and a second interior        wall;    -   a third chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two        short sides, the second interior wall, and the second long side;        and    -   filler material deposited in the first chamber, second chamber,        and third chamber;    -   wherein a fill weight of the filler material in the first        chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber is based on        one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight of thefiller material in the first chamber and the third chamber issubstantially the same, and the fill weight of the second chamber isless that the fill weight of the first and third chambers.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight in thesecond chamber is substantially 8 ounces, and the fill weight in thefirst and third chambers ranges from substantially 11 ounces tosubstantially 17 ounces each.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is oneor more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the two short sides, thefirst and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are madeof cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two shortsides are of substantially equal length and the first and second longsides are of substantially equal length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a customdesigned pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of aheight, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size,head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bedfirmness, the pillow comprising:

-   -   two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom        edges;    -   a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top        and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the        two short sides at the first edges and the second long side        attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;    -   a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at        the top edges;    -   a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at        the bottom edges;    -   an interior portion bounded by the top side, the bottom side,        the two short sides and the two long sides; and    -   filler material deposited in the interior portion;

wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more ofthe person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight ranges fromsubstantially 20 ounces to substantially 31 ounces.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is oneor more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the two short sides, thefirst and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are madeof cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two shortsides are of substantially equal length and the first and second longsides are of substantially equal length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a customdesigned pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of aheight, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size,head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bedfirmness, the pillow comprising:

-   -   a first side and a second side, each having a center height, a        top edge, a bottom edge, a first endpoint where the top edge and        the bottom edge meet, and a second endpoint where the top edge        and the bottom edge meet;    -   a first edge and a second edge, the first edge running from the        first endpoint of the first side to the first endpoint of the        second side, and the second edge running from the second        endpoint of the first side to the second endpoint of the second        side;    -   a top side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and the        first side and second side at the top edges;    -   a bottom side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and        the first side and second side at the bottom edges;    -   an interior portion bounded by the first side, the second side,        the top side, the bottom side, the first edge and the second        edge; and    -   a filler material deposited in the interior portion;

wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more ofthe person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight ranges fromsubstantially 17 ounces to substantially 21 ounces.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is oneor more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first side, second side,top side and bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread countgreater than 300, the first and second sides are substantially the samelength and the first and second edges are substantially the same length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method ofdetermining a pillow for a person, the person having characteristics ofa height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size,head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bedfirmness, the method comprising:

-   -   determining a pillow type based on the person's sleeping        position;    -   determining a pillow code based on one or more of the        characteristics and preferences of the person; and    -   selecting a fill weight and material for the pillow based on the        pillow code.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow type is one of aBack Sleeper, Stomach Sleeper or Side Sleeper.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code isdetermined as a function of height.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code isdetermined as a function of weight.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code isdetermined as a function of chest size.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code isdetermined as a function of preferred pillow firmness.

In another aspect of the present invention, the step of determining apillow code further comprises:

-   -   locating the pillow code on a first series of charts, each chart        in the first series comprising values for at least one of the        characteristics and preferences of the person, and each chart        representing pillows of a particular pillow type based on        sleeping position.

These and other features of the present invention are further describedbelow with the help of the following illustrative FIGS. 1-4.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow with thecomponents unattached;

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of a first custom designed pillow;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow withthe components unattached

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a second custom designed pillow;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a third custom designed pillow;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of a third custom designed pillow; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a method of determining a pillow for a person.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to custom designed pillows and a methodfor determining an appropriate pillow for a person based on thecharacteristics of the person. The custom designed pillows are designedbased on the specific characteristics of the person that will be usingthe pillow, such as sleeping position, height, weight, age, sex,posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and a preferredpillow firmness. Similarly, the method for determining an appropriatepillow takes these characteristics into consideration to determine apillow that will suit the specific needs of the person. This inventionsolves the problem of sleep that is disturbed and not restful orenjoyable because of pillows that do not properly suit the body andsleeping preferences of the person using them.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow 100. Thepillow 100 includes two short sides 110, first long side 120, a secondlong side, top side 130, a bottom side, first interior wall 140, secondinterior wall 150, first chamber 160, second chamber 170, third chamber180, and filler material.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of custom designed pillow 100 with shortside 110, first long side 120, and top side 130 unattached. Short side110 includes first edge 112, second edge 114, top edge 116 and bottomedge 118. First long side 120 includes first edge 122, second edge 124,top edge 126 and bottom edge 128.

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 100. Firstchamber 160 includes filler material 162. Second chamber 170 includesfiller material 172. Third chamber 180 includes filler material 182.

To construct pillow 100, first edge 112 of short side 110 is connectedto first edge 122 of first long side 120. Second edge 114 of short side110 is connected to a second end of a second long side. Second edge 124of long side 120 is connected to a second edge of a short side. Secondedge of a second long side is connected to a second edge of a shortside. Top side 130 is connected to first short side 110 at top edge 116,two long sides 120 at top edge 126, and the second short side at a topedge. Bottom side is connected to first short side 110 at bottom edge118, two long sides 120 at bottom edge 128, and the second short side ata bottom edge. First chamber 160 is bounded by top side 130, a bottomside, two short sides 110, first long side 120 and first interior wall140. Second chamber 170 is bounded by top side 130, a bottom side, twoshort sides 110, first interior wall 140 and second interior wall 150.Third chamber is bounded by top side 130, a bottom side, two short sides110, second interior wall 150 and a second long side.

Preferably, the two short sides 110 are of substantially equal length.First long side 120 and the second long side are of substantially equallength. Short sides 110, top side 130, a bottom side, first long side120 and a second long side form the exterior shell of pillow 100. Thisshell keeps filler materials 162, 172, and 182 inside of the pillow 100.Filler materials 162, 172 and 182 cause chambers 160, 170 and 180 tomaintain their volume. The type and amount of filler material in achamber determines the fill weight of the chamber. The fill weight offiller materials 162, 172, and 182 determines the firmness and supportthat chambers 160, 170, and 180 respectively supply to the person'shead. Filler materials 162, 172 and 182 provide comfort and support forthe neck and head of the person using the pillow by creating a cushionfor the neck and head to rest on and by supporting the neck and head atappropriate heights. Interior walls 140 and 150 keep filler materials162, 172 and 182 in their appropriate chambers 160, 170 and 180 insideof pillow 100. Interior walls 140 and 150 allow chambers 160, 170 and180 to maintain different fill weights of filler materials 162, 172 and182.

The appropriate fill weights of filler materials 162, 172 and 182 willbe determined by the characteristics of the person using the pillow.Characteristics that could be considered to determine the appropriatefill weight include height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chestsize, neck size and head size and the firmness of the mattress in use.One with skill in the art understands that there is a direct correlationbetween a person's height and neck length. People with longer necks needmore support for their heads. People who have a greater weight typicallyhave heavier head and shoulder regions and need more support.

The inventor has noted that as the body ages there is a general loss ofbone density, which can alter a preferred density of the pillow. Thelower the bone density, the less support is needed. Females generallyhave smaller frames than males, including subsequently thinner necks,arms, and lighter head mass. Accordingly females generally do not needas much support. The chest size of a person can determine how close apersons head is to the pillow when the person is laying down. A biggerchest typically means that the head will be further from the pillow, andmore support is needed.

Neck posture can effect how much support is needed depending on thesleeping position. For a person that sleeps on their back, a neckposture where the neck leans forward would mean that more support isneeded, while a neck posture where the neck leans backwards wouldrequire less support. A larger head typically means more support isneeded. A person's preferred pillow firmness affects the appropriatepillow for that person. The appropriate pillow for a person who prefersa softer pillow would have less fill weight than the appropriate pillowfor a person who prefers a firmer pillow. The mattress used can alsoaffect the appropriate amount of support needed. A softer mattress willallow a person to sink further into the mattress, which causes a needfor less support from the pillow.

In a preferred embodiment, pillow 100 is a Back Sleeper pillow. A BackSleeper is a type of pillow designed for people that sleep primarily ontheir back. In a Back Sleeper pillow, the fill weight of filler material162 in first chamber 160 and filler material 182 in third chamber 180should be greater than the fill weight of filler material 172 in secondchamber 170. This allows subtle but firm outer chambers 160 and 180 tosupport the neck while center chamber 170 softly cradles the head.

The size of the pillow 100 varies in different embodiments of theinvention. In one embodiment pillow 100 is a standard size withdimensions of 18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 100 is king sizedwith dimensions of 18″×24″2″. The relative sizes of chambers 160, 170and 180 may also vary.

As known to those skilled in the art, the filler material used may alsovary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®. Inanother preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. In yetanother preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. Thematerial for the exterior portions including two short sides 110, longside 120, another long side, top side 130, and a bottom side may alsovary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312 thread countcombed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow to breathe whileproviding a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neck of the personusing the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine anappropriate fill weight also varies in different types of pillows. In apreferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 100 will vary accordingto height, weight, and chest size as seen in Chart 1 below.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow 200.Pillow 200 includes two short sides 210, first long side 220, a secondlong side, top side 230, a bottom side, an interior portion, and fillermaterial.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of custom designed pillow 200 with shortside 210, first long side 220, and top side 230 unattached. Short side210 includes first edge 212, second edge 214, top edge 216 and bottomedge 218. First long side includes first edge 222, second edge 224, topedge 226 and bottom edge 228.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 200. Pillow200 includes first side 220, top side 230, interior portion 240 andfiller material 250.

To construct pillow 200, first edge 212 of short side 210 is connectedto first edge 222 of first long side 220. Second edge 214 of short side210 is connected to a second end of a second long side. Second edge 224of long side 220 is connected to a second edge of a short side. Secondedge of a second long side is connected to a second edge of a shortside. Top side 230 is connected to first short side 210 at top edge 216,two long sides 220 at top edge 226, and the second short side at a topedge. Bottom side is connected to first short side 210 at bottom edge218, two long sides 220 at bottom edge 228, and the second short side ata bottom edge. This forms interior portion 240 that contains fillermaterial 250.

Preferably, the two short sides 210 are of substantially equal length.First long side 220 and a second long side are of substantially equallength. Short sides 210, top side 230, a bottom side, first long side220 and a second long side bound the interior portion and form theexterior shell of pillow 200. This shell keeps filler material 250inside of pillow 200. The presence of filler material 250 inside ofpillow 200 helps pillow 200 to maintain its shape and support the headand neck of the user. The type and amount of filler material 250 inpillow 200 determine the fill weight of filler material 250. The type offiller material 250 and the fill weight of filler material 250determines the firmness and amount of support of pillow 200. The greaterthe fill weight, the more firmness and support is offered by pillow 200.

The appropriate fill weight and filler material 250 will be determinedby the characteristics of the person using the pillow. As with pillow100 described above, characteristics that could be considered todetermine the appropriate fill weight include height, weight, age, sex,posture, body type, chest size, neck size and head size and the firmnessof the mattress in use. These characteristics influence the appropriatefill weight of pillow 200 in similarly to how they influence theappropriate fill weight of pillow 100 described above. For example,people who have a greater weight typically have heavier heads and needmore support. Therefore the fill weight of pillow 200 should be greaterfor someone with a greater weight.

In a preferred embodiment pillow 200 is a Side Sleeper pillow. A SideSleeper pillow is a type of pillow designed for people that sleepprimarily on their sides. In a Side Sleeper pillow the two short sides210, first long side 220 and second long side create a baffled sidepanel surrounding the pillow. The baffled side panel providesappropriate neck alignment and an even sleep surface. In one embodimentthe baffled side panel is substantially 2 inches tall.

The size of pillow 200 varies in different embodiments of the invention.In one embodiment pillow 200 is a standard size with dimensions of18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 200 is king sized withdimensions of 18″×24″×2″.

As known to those skilled in the art, the filler material used may alsovary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®. Inanother preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. In yetanother preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. Thematerial for the exterior portions including two short sides 210, longside 220, another long side, top side 230, and a bottom side may alsovary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312 thread countcombed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow to breathe whileproviding a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neck of the personusing the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine anappropriate fill weight varies in different types of pillows. In apreferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 200 will vary accordingto height, weight, chest size, and preferred pillow firmness as seen inChart 2 below.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a third custom designed pillow 300.Pillow 300 includes fist side 310, a second side, first edge 320, secondedge 330, top side 340, a bottom side, an interior portion, and a fillermaterial. First side 310 has center height 312, top edge 314, bottomedge 316, first endpoint 317 and second endpoint 318.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 300. Pillow300 includes first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, interiorportion 350 and filler material 360.

To construct pillow 300, top side 340 and the bottom side are connectedat first edge 320 and second edge 330. First side 310 is connected totop side 340 at top edge 314. First side 320 is also connected to thebottom side at bottom edge 316. The second side is similarly connectedto top side 340 and the bottom side. Interior portion 350 is bounded byfirst side 310, the second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, topside 340, and the bottom side. Interior portion 350 is filled withfiller material 360.

First side 310, the second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, topside 340, and the bottom side form an exterior shell of pillow 300. Thisshell keeps filler material 360 inside of pillow 300. The presence offiller material 360 inside of pillow 300 causes pillow 300 to maintainits shape and support the head and neck of the user. The type and amountof filler material 360 in pillow 300 determines the fill weight of thefiller material 360. The type of filler material 360 and the fill weightof filler material 360 determine the firmness and amount of support ofby pillow 300. The greater the fill weight, the more firmness andsupport is offered by pillow 300.

The appropriate fill weight and filler material 360 will be determinedby the characteristics of the person using the pillow. As with pillow100 and pillow 200 described above, characteristics that could beconsidered to determine the appropriate fill weight include height,weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size and headsize and the firmness of the mattress in use. These characteristicsinfluence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 300 in similarly to howthey influence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 100 and pillow 200described above. For example, people who have a greater weight typicallyhave heavier heads and need more support. Therefore the fill weight ofpillow 300 should be greater for someone with a greater weight.

In a preferred embodiment, pillow 300 is a Stomach Sleeper pillow. AStomach Sleeper pillow is a type of pillow designed for people thatsleep primarily on their stomach. In a Stomach Sleeper pillow, the firstside 310 and the second side create a tapered baffled end. The taperedbaffled end has a height equal to the center height 310 of the firstside and a sleep surface that gently slopes to first edge 320 and secondedge 330. The tapered shape of the Stomach Sleeper provides a flatterpillow 300, which is better for people that sleep on their stomachs. Inone embodiment the center height 310 is substantially 2 inches tall.

The size of pillow 300 varies in different embodiments of the invention.In one embodiment pillow 300 is a standard size with dimensions of18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 300 is king sized withdimensions of 18″×24″×2″.

As known to those with skill in the act, the filler material used mayalso vary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®.In another preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. Inyet another preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. Thematerial for the exterior portions including first side 310, a secondside, first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, and a bottom sidemay also vary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312thread count combed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow tobreathe while providing a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neckof the person using the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine anappropriate fill weight varies in different types of pillows. In apreferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 300 will vary accordingto height, weight, chest size, gender, and for women—cup size, as seenin Charts 3-5 below.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a preferred method 400 of determining a pillowfor a person. As shown in FIG. 4, step 410 is to determine a pillow typebased on the sleeping position of the person. Generally, people eithersleep on their back, side, or stomach. The sleeping position should bethe position the person usually sleeps in. Some examples of sleepingposition are back, side and stomach. In step 410, a pillow type ischosen based on the person's sleeping position. The sleeping positiondetermines the appropriate basic structure for the person's pillow.

In step 420 a pillow code is determined based on comparing thecharacteristics of the person to a chart. The chart is specific to thesleeping position of the person and includes values for differentcharacteristics that determine the appropriate pillow for the person.For example, Chart 2 below applies to a person who sleeps on his or herside. Chart 2 has values for height, weight, chest size, and preferredpillow firmness. When characteristics of the person are compared toChart 2, it results in a specific pillow code. For example, comparingthe characteristics of a 5′8″ person weighing 160 pounds with a 39″chest who prefers a soft pillow would result in the pillow code SiS2.

In step 430 a pillow weight and filler material is selected based on thepillow code. The pillow code determined in step 420 is compared to atable containing pillow codes, filler materials, and filler weights (asshown at the top of Chart 3). This results in a specific filler materialand filler weight for the pillow. Using the example from above where thepillow code is SiS2, the filler material would be Lyocell™ and thefiller weight would be 20 ounces.

In a preferred embodiment for a person that does not sleep on his or herside a chart different from Chart 2 is used. In a preferred embodimentfor a person who sleeps on his or her back Chart 1 is used. In apreferred embodiment for a female with a small chest who sleeps on herstomach Chart 3 is used. In a preferred embodiment for a female with alarge chest who sleeps on her stomach Chart 4 is used. In a preferredembodiment for a male who sleeps on his stomach Chart 5 is used.

In a preferred embodiment the characteristics of height, weight, andchest size are considered for a person that sleeps on his/her back. Inanother preferred embodiment, the characteristics of weight, chest side,height, and preferred pillow firmness are considered for a person thatsleeps on his/her side. In yet another preferred embodiment, thecharacteristics of gender, height, chest size, and weight are consideredfor a person that sleeps on his/her stomach.

In a preferred embodiment the type of pillow is a body pillow. Todetermine the fill weight and filler material of a body pillow, theperson's height and weight are considered. Preferably the body pillowhas a length of substantially 54″ and a width of substantially 20″. Inan alternative preferred embodiment, the body pillow has a length ofsubstantially 60″ and a width of substantially 20″. Preferably, thefiller material is Spiraloft™, which is based on the person'scharacteristics.

In a preferred embodiment, the type of pillow is a pillow with a shapeother than those described above. In an alternative preferredembodiment, the pillow shape one of a circle, an oval, a triangle, ahexagon, a pentagon, a different polyhedron, or the like.

While particular elements, embodiments and applications of the presentinvention have been shown and described, it is understood that theinvention is not limited thereto since modifications may be made bythose skilled in the art, particularly in light of the foregoingteaching. It is therefore contemplated by the appended claims to coversuch modifications and incorporate those features which come within thespirit and scope of the invention. CHART 1 Chart 1 contains pillow codesfor a person who sleeps on his or her back. This chart includes thecharacteristics of height, chest size, and weight. MALE/FEMALE BackPosition Height Chest Weight Pillow   0-5′ 3″  0-34 <130 BS1   0-5′ 3″ 0-34 >130 BS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 BS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 >150 BS2   0-5′3″ 40-46 <200 BS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 >200 BS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 BS3   0-5′3″ 46> >225 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 <150 BS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150 BS2 5′3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46<210 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 >210 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 BS2 5′ 3″-5′6″ 46-50 >230 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 BS3 5′6″-5′ 9″  0-35 <160 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40<185 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 BS3 5′ 6″-5′9″ 40-46 >225 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 BS45′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 BS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 <170BS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 <200 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″36-40 >200 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 <240 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 >240 BS4 5′9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 <265 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> <275BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 BS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 <180 BS2 6′ 2″-higher 0-36 >180 BS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <220 BS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 >220 BS46′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 >245 BS4 6′ 2″-higher46-50 <260 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >260 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> <285 BS4 6′2″-higher 50> >285 BS4

CHART 2 Chart 2 contains pillow codes for a person who sleeps on his orher side. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size,weight and preferred pillow firmness. MALE/FEMALE - Side Position HeightChest Weight Pillow - Firm Pillow - SOFT   0-5′ 3″  0-34 <130 SiSf1 SiS1  0-5′ 3″  0-34 >130 SiSf1 SiS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 SiSf1 StS1   0-5′3″ 34-40 >150 SiSf1 SiS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 <200 SiSf2 SiS3   0-5′ 3″40-46 >200 SiSf2 SiS4   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 SiSf3 SiS4   0-5′ 3″ 46> >225SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 <150 SiSf1 SiS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 <210 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 >210SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 SiSf2 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 >230SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 SiSf3SiS5 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 <160 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 SiSf1 SiS25′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 <185 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 SiSf2 SiS3 5′6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 >225 SiSf3 SiS4 5′6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 SiSf3 SiS4 5′6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 SiSf3 SiS5 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 SiSf4 SiS5 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 0-36 <170 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″36-40 <200 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 >200 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″40-46 <240 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 >240 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″46-50 <265 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 SiSf4 SiS5 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50><275 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 <180SiSf1 SiS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 >180 SiSf2 SiS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <220SiSf3 SiS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 >220 SiSf3 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245SiSf3 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 >245 SiSf4 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 <260SiSf4 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >260 SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher 50> <285SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher 50> >285 SiSf4 SiS5

CHART 3 Chart 3 contains pillow codes for a female who sleeps on herstomach. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest sizein inches and cup size, and weight. Female Stomach|Position| HeightChest A-C Cup Weight Pillow   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes <130 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 0-34 Yes >130 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes <150 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40Yes >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes >200StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes <225 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes >225 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 0-34 Yes <150 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes >150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40Yes <170 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes >170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes <210StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes >210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes <230 StS3 5′3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes >230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes <250 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″50> Yes >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes <160 StS1 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35Yes >160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes <185 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes >185StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes <225 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes >225 StS3 5′6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes <245 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes >245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″50> Yes <265 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes<170 StS1 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes >170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes <200StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes <240 StS3 5′9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes >240 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 Yes <265 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″46-50 Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50>Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes <180 StS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36Yes >180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes <210 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40Yes >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes <245 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 40-46Yes >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes >300StS4

CHART 4 Chart 4 contains pillow codes for a female who sleeps on herstomach. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest sizein inches and cup size, and weight. Female Stomach Position D or LargerHeight Chest Cup Weight Pillow - Soft   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes <130 StS2  0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes >130 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes <150 StS2   0-5′ 3″34-40 Yes >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46Yes >200 StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes <225 StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes >225 StS4 5′3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes <150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes >150 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″34-40 Yes <170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes >170 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46Yes <210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes >210 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes <230StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes >230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes <250 StS4 5′3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes <160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 0-35 Yes >160 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes <185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40Yes >185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes <225 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes >225StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes <245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes >245 StS4 5′6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes <265 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 0-36 Yes <170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes >170 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40Yes <200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes <240StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes >240 StS4 5′ 9″-6′2″ 46-50 Yes <265 StS4 5′9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″50> Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes <180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher  0-36Yes >180 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes <210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 36-40Yes >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes <245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46Yes >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes >300StS4

CHART 5 Chart 5 contains pillow codes for a male who sleeps on his side.This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size, andweight. MALE Stomach Position Height Chest Weight Pillow - Soft   0-5′3″  0-34 <130 StS1   0-5′ 3″  0-34 >130 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 StS1  0-5′ 3″ 34-40 >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 >200StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> >225 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34<150 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 StS1 5′3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 <210 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″40-46 >210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 >230 StS45′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35<160 StS1 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 <185 StS2 5′6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″40-46 >225 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 StS45′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36<170 StS1 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 <200 StS2 5′9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 <240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″40-46 >240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′2″ 46-50 <265 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 StS45′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36<180 StS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 >180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <210 StS3 6′2″-higher 36-40 >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245 StS3 6′ 2″-higher40-46 >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >275StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> >300 StS4

CHART 6 Chart 6 contains all of the pillow codes for the above chartsand the corresponding fill weights and types for filler material. BackSleepers Code Brand Ounces Specifications BS1 Primaloft 30 oz 11 outer/8inner BS2 Primaloft 34 oz 13 outer/8 inner BS3 Primaloft 38 oz 15outer/8 inner BS4 Primaloft 42 oz 17 outer/8 inner

1. A custom designed pillow for a person, the person havingcharacteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chestsize, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmnessand a bed firmness, the pillow comprising: one or more chambers; fillermaterial deposited in each of the one or more chambers; wherein a fillweight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person'scharacteristics and preferences.
 2. A custom designed pillow for aperson, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex,posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the personpreferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges; afirst and second long side, each having a first, second, top and bottomedges, the first long side attached to each of the two short sides atthe first edges and the second long side attached to each of the twoshort sides at the second edges; a top side attached to the two longsides and two short sides at the top edges; a bottom side attached tothe two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges; a first chamberbounded by the top side, bottom side, the two short sides, the firstlong side, and a first interior wall; a second chamber bounded by thetopside, bottom side, the two short sides, the first interior wall, anda second interior wall; a third chamber bounded by the top side, bottomside, the two short sides, the second interior wall, and the second longside; and filler material deposited in the first chamber, secondchamber, and third chamber; wherein a fill weight of the filler materialin the first chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber is basedon one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.
 3. Thepillow of claim 2, wherein the fill weight of the filler material in thefirst chamber and the third chamber is substantially the same, and thefill weight of the second chamber is less that the fill weight of thefirst and third chambers.
 4. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the fillweight in the second chamber is substantially 8 ounces, and the fillweight in the first and third chambers ranges from substantially 11ounces to substantially 17 ounces each.
 5. The pillow of claim 2,wherein the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, orLyocell™.
 6. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the two short sides, thefirst and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are madeof cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two shortsides are of substantially equal length and the first and second longsides are of substantially equal length.
 7. A custom designed pillow fora person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age,sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and theperson preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillowcomprising: two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottomedges; a first and second long side, each having a first, second, topand bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the two shortsides at the first edges and the second long side attached to each ofthe two short sides at the second edges; a top side attached to the twolong sides and two short sides at the top edges; a bottom side attachedto the two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges; an interiorportion bounded by the top side, the bottom side, the two short sidesand the two long sides; and filler material deposited in the interiorportion; wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one ormore of the person's characteristics and preferences.
 8. The pillow ofclaim 7, wherein the fill weight ranges from substantially 20 ounces tosubstantially 31 ounces.
 9. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the fillermaterial is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.
 10. Thepillow of claim 7, wherein the two short sides, the first and secondlong sides, the top side, and the bottom side are made of cottonSateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two short sides areof substantially equal length and the first and second long sides are ofsubstantially equal length.
 11. A custom designed pillow for a person,the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex,posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the personpreferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:a first side and a second side, each having a center height, a top edge,a bottom edge, a first endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edgemeet, and a second endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edge meet;a first edge and a second edge, the first edge running from the firstendpoint of the first side to the first endpoint of the second side, andthe second edge running from the second endpoint of the first side tothe second endpoint of the second side; a top side attached to the firstedge, the second edge, and the first side and second side at the topedges; a bottom side attached to the first edge, the second edge, andthe first side and second side at the bottom edges; an interior portionbounded by the first side, the second side, the top side, the bottomside, the first edge and the second edge; and a filler materialdeposited in the interior portion; wherein a fill weight of the fillermaterial is based on one or more of the person's characteristics andpreferences.
 12. The pillow of claim 11, wherein the fill weight rangesfrom substantially 17 ounces to substantially 21 ounces.
 13. The pillowof claim 11, wherein the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®,Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.
 14. The pillow of claim 11, wherein the firstside, second side, top side and bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™,have a thread count greater than 300, the first and second sides aresubstantially the same length and the first and second edges aresubstantially the same length.
 15. A method of determining a pillow fora person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age,sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and theperson preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the methodcomprising: determining a pillow type based on the person's sleepingposition; determining a pillow code based on one or more of thecharacteristics and preferences of the person; and selecting a fillweight and material for the pillow based on the pillow code.
 16. Themethod of claim 15, wherein the pillow type is one of a Back Sleeper,Stomach Sleeper or Side Sleeper.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein thepillow code is determined as a function of height.
 18. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as a function of weight.19. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as afunction of chest size.
 20. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillowcode is determined as a function of preferred pillow firmness.
 21. Themethod of claim 15, wherein the step of determining a pillow codefurther comprises: locating the pillow code on a first series of charts,each chart in the first series comprising values for at least one of thecharacteristics and preferences of the person, and each chartrepresenting pillows of a particular pillow type based on sleepingposition.